A micro-plasma ganerator using a water electrode for detection of heavy metals

A micro-plasma generator for the detection of heavy metals in the water has been fabricated and evaluated. As for the new type of a plasma source, the micro-plasma generator based on water electrode has been proposed. This type of device features simple device structure that doesnpsilat require nebulizer for water samples. Water sample is isolated from a metal electrode by glass substrate, eliminating unexpected side effects such as electrophoresis and electrochemical reaction between a metal electrode and ions in water. This configuration prevents metal electrodes from erosion, which will lead to high detection reliability for water contaminants. The lead (Pb) in nitric acid solution (0.1 M) was detected using the fabricated micro-plasma generator and a fiber optic spectrometer. Two atomic emission lines of the lead (at 368 nm, 405 nm) were clearly observed. 10 ppm of Pb ions in nitric acid solution was measured using the proposed micro-plasma generator based on water electrode.